Flexible and static interspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacers

ABSTRACT

Interspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacers are configured to be placed between bony structures of adjacent vertebrae. In one form, spinal spacers are defined by a unitary body comprising a first contoured plate and a second contoured plate. The first contoured plate comprises first and second wings configured to engage first and second vertebra, and a post extending from the contoured plate and having a bullet nose and an outer surface with a curved portion and a planar portion. The second contoured plate is slidably coupled to the post of the body and comprises first and second wings configured to engage first and second vertebra, a rear portion extending between the first wing and the second wing, and a front portion extending between the first wing and the second wing. The first wing, second wing, rear portion, and front portion define a first bore configured to receive the post.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/694,051 filed on Jan. 26, 2010 and titled Flexible AndStatic Interpinous/Inter-Laminar Spinal Spacers, which claims thebenefit of and/or priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/147,384 filed Jan. 26, 2009 and titled “FlexibleInterspinous/Inter-Laminar Spinal Spacer,” the entire contents of bothare specifically hereby incorporated herein by this reference.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to devices for the spine and, moreparticularly, to spinal implants for providing interspinous and/orinter-laminar space between adjacent vertebrae.

As we age various changes can occur in the body. For instance, theligaments of the spine can thicken and calcify (i.e. harden fromdeposits of calcium), bone and joints may enlarge, bone spurs calledosteophytes may form, spinal discs may collapse and bulge (i.e.herniate) or one vertebra may slip over another (spondylolisthesis). Anyone or these conditions and/or others can cause what is known as lumbarspinal stenosis. Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the bonyspinal canal. While some people are born with this condition, most oftenspinal stenosis is the result of one of the above-identifieddegenerative conditions that develop in mainly the middle-aged andelderly population.

In this regard, spinal stenosis may be considered as the gradual resultof aging and “wear and tear” on the spine from everyday activities. Suchdegenerative or age-related changes in our bodies can lead tocompression of nerves (i.e. pressure on the nerves that can cause painand/or damage). Symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis include leg pain(“pins and needles”) that can limit standing, walking, self-supportingdaily activities, work social and recreational pursuits. Lack ofactivity because of lumbar spinal stenosis may lead to obesity,depression and general physical deterioration. Surgical procedures maybe used in order to alleviate the problems associated with spinalstenosis. This may include the use of an implant designed to hold orstabilize adjacent vertebrae or vertebral parts of the spine.

Other spinal conditions, diseases and/or accidents, however, can alsocause problems that may require spinal surgery and the need to hold orstabilize adjacent vertebrae or vertebral parts in a spatial orientationrelative to one another and/or with regard to other vertebral parts. Inthese cases, the surgeon may again use a device to hold or stabilizeadjacent vertebrae or vertebral parts. The implants used for thesepurposes are typically not affixed to the vertebrae by bone screws orthe like but are held to the vertebrae by the bony portions, structuresor protrusions of the vertebrae.

Of these types of spinal devices some allow for movement between theadjacent vertebrae to which it is connected and some do not. The staticspinal device provides a fixed or static spatial orientation of theadjacent vertebrae to which it is affixed. The static spinal devicespermanently limit movement between the adjacent vertebrae to which it isaffixed. The non-static spinal devices provide limited movement betweenthe adjacent vertebrae in addition to maintaining a spatial orientationof the adjacent vertebrae. These non-static spinal devices, however, areassemblies formed of two or more components with a variety of ways toachieve motion between the various components.

In view of the above, it is apparent that there is a need for improvedinterspinous or inter-laminar spinal devices, both flexible and staticone-piece designs.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides interspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacers(processes, transverse and spinous—i.e. spinal spacers) that areconfigured to be placed between bony structures of adjacent vertebrae ofa spine.

In one form, a flexible interspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacer(processes, transverse and spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) isdefined by a unitary body that is configured to be placed between bonystructures of adjacent vertebrae of a spine. The unitary body has a flexportion that provides for motion between the adjacent vertebrae to whichit is coupled. The flex portion is configurable to provide for variousdegrees of angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression of thepresent flexible spinal spacer. Thus, the present flexible spinal spacerallows for controlled movement of the adjacent vertebrae to which it isattached, as well as aid in insertion and/or implantation of theflexible spinal spacer.

The flex portion may take different configurations depending on thetype, degree and/or amount of flexure. In one form, the flex portioncomprises a plurality of cuts, slits, grooves, channels, notches or thelike (collectively, cuts) extending from lateral sides of the unitarybody that may or may not be through. The cuts are staggered relative toopposite serrations and may or may not extend diagonally from and alongthe lateral sides. The size of the cuts, the degree of slant or no slantof the cuts all provides various flexure properties. This allows forvarious degrees of lateral compression of the flexible spinal spacer.Other configurations are thus contemplated that provide for lateralcompression and/or extension of the flexible spinal spacer.

In another form, the flex portion comprises a plurality of posterior andanterior ribs, ledges, shelves, fins, projections or the like(collectively, ribs) extending from a middle section of the unitarybody. The ribs are staggered relative to opposite ribs and extendgenerally perpendicular to the middle section (i.e. in the posterior andanterior direction). The number and size of the anterior/posterior ribsall provide various flexure properties. This allows for various degreesof extension and/or flexion of the flexible spinal spacer. Otherconfigurations are thus contemplated that provide for flexion and/orextension of the flexible spinal spacer.

In another form, the flex portion comprises posterior and anteriorflexure contours (e.g. springs or spring-like contours) defined by theposterior and anterior sides of the unitary body. The posterior andanterior flexure contours extend generally from and between the superiorend and the inferior end of the unitary body. Each flexure contourcomprises one or more curvatures. The number, size, thickness andconfiguration of the curvatures all provide various flexure properties.A cavity is thus formed between the posterior flexure contour and theanterior flexure contours of the unitary body. This allows for variousdegrees of angulation, compression, flexion and/or extension of theflexible spinal spacer. Other configurations are thus contemplated thatprovide for angulation only or angulation, compression, flexion and/orextension of the flexible spinal spacer.

The unitary body of the flexible spinal spacers has saddle-shaped endseach defining a pocket that is configured to receive a bony structure ofa vertebra. The pockets may or may not be textured and/or may or may notinclude teeth, serrations or ridged surfaces to secure the spinal spacerto the bony structure.

The present flexible spinal spacers allow for controlled movement of theadjacent vertebrae to which it is attached, as well as aid in insertionand/or implantation of the flexible spinal spacer.

In another form, static interspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacers(processes, transverse and spinous—i.e. static spinal spacers) aredefined by a unitary body that is configured to be placed between bonystructures of adjacent vertebrae of a spine. The unitary body hassaddle-shaped ends each defining a pocket that is configured to receivea bony structure of a vertebra. The pockets may or may not be texturedand/or may or may not include teeth, serrations or ridged surfaces tosecure the spinal spacer to the bony structure.

The present spinal spacers are made from a biocompatible material suchas PEEK (PolyEtherEtherKetone), titanium, stainless steel or the likethat will provide flexure given the geometry or configuration of theunitary body thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above mentioned and other features, advantages and objects of thisinvention, and the manner of attaining them, will become apparent andthe invention itself will be better understood by reference to thefollowing description of embodiments of the invention taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse &spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) fashioned in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 1 takenalong line 3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse &spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) fashioned in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a front view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 4 takenalong line 6-6 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse &spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) fashioned in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 7 takenalong line 9-9 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse &spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) fashioned in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a front view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a side view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 10 takenalong line 12-12 of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse &spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) fashioned in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a front view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 13 takenalong line 15-15 of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a static interspinous/inter-laminarspinal spacer (processes, transverse & spinous—i.e. static spinalspacer) fashioned in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 is a front view of the static spinal spacer of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a side view of the static spinal spacer of FIG. 16 takenalong line 18-18 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a staticinterspinous/inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse &spinous—i.e. static spinal spacer) fashioned in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a front view of the static spinal spacer of FIG. 19; and

FIG. 21 is a side view of the flexible spinal spacer of FIG. 19 takenalong line 21-21 of FIG. 20.

Like reference numerals indicate the same or similar parts throughoutthe several figures.

A discussion of the features, functions and/or configurations of thecomponents depicted in the various figures will now be presented. Itshould be appreciated that not all of the features of the components ofthe figures are necessarily described. Some of these non discussedfeatures as well as discussed features are inherent from the figures.Other non discussed features may be inherent in component geometryand/or configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, there is shown an embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous or inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse andspinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) generally designated 10 fashionedin accordance with the principles of the present invention. The flexiblespinal spacer 10 is used as an interspinous, inter-laminar, interbody,or interbony spinal spacer and thus is configured to be placed betweenbony structures of adjacent vertebrae of a spine.

The flexible spinal spacer 10 is formed as a unitary or single-piecebody 12 of a biocompatible material. The body 12 is formed in agenerally “H” shape and thus defines a first lateral side 15, a secondlateral side 16, a posterior side 13, an anterior side 14, a superiorside or end 17, and an inferior side or end 18. It should be appreciatedthat the flexible spinal spacer may take forms other than an “H” whilemaintaining the features and/or characteristics of the presentinvention. The body 12 also has a flex portion 34 disposed between thesuperior side 17 and the inferior side 18. The flex portion 34 hasflexure characteristics/properties that provide for relative movement ormotion of the spinal spacer 10 and thus motion or movement between theadjacent vertebrae to which it is connected. The flex portion 34 isconfigurable to provide for various degrees of angulation and/orcompression of the body 12.

The flex portion 34 comprises a first set, number, or plurality of cuts,slits, grooves, channels, notches or the like 36 (collectively, cuts 36)and a second set, number, or plurality of cuts, slits, grooves,channels, notches or the like 38 (collectively, cuts 38) in theposterior and anterior sides 13, 14 of the body 12. In FIGS. 1-3, thefirst and second plurality of cuts 36, 38 extend diagonally into thebody 12 from the lateral sides 15 and 16 thereof. It should beappreciated that the cuts 36, 38 may be horizontal cuts, perpendicularcuts and/or a pattern of cuts to achieve angulation, flexion, extensionand/or compression of the body 12. Also, while three (3) cuts are shownfor both the first and second set of cuts 36, 38, it should beappreciated that the number of cuts may vary depending on the desiredamount and/or type of flexure.

The superior end 17 is formed as a saddle-shape defining first andsecond legs 24, 25 separated by a pocket 20 that is configured toreceive a bony structure of a superior situated vertebra. The first andsecond legs 24 and 25 define first and second lateral sides of thepocket 20 with a curved bottom 30. The first lateral side of the pocket20 has a first plurality of teeth, serrations or ridged surfaces 28(collectively, teeth) along its length. The first plurality of teeth 28provide for connection to a first portion of a bony vertebral structure.The second lateral side of the pocket 20 has a second plurality ofteeth, serrations or ridged surfaces 29 (collectively, teeth) along itslength. The second plurality of teeth 29 provide for connection to asecond portion of the bony structure of the superior situated vertebra.The sides of the pocket 20 may or may not be textured (shown in thefigures as not textured) and/or may or may not include teeth,serrations, or ridged surfaces (shown in the figures with teeth,serrations, or ridged surfaces) in order to secure the superior end ofthe spinal spacer to the bony structure of the superior situatedvertebra.

The inferior end 18 is formed as a saddle-shape defining third andfourth legs 26, 27 separated by a pocket 22 that is configured toreceive a bony structure of an inferior situated vertebra (adjacent tothe superior situated vertebra). The third and fourth legs 26 and 27define first and second lateral sides of the pocket 22 with a curvedbottom 33. The first lateral side of the pocket 22 has a first pluralityof teeth, serrations or ridged surfaces 31 (collectively, teeth) alongits length. The first plurality of teeth 31 provide for connection to afirst portion of a bony structure of the inferior vertebra. The secondlateral side of the pocket 22 has a second plurality of teeth,serrations or ridged surfaces 32 (collectively, teeth) along its length.The second plurality of teeth 32 provide for connection to a secondportion of the bony structure of the inferior situated vertebra. Thesides of the pocket 22 may or may not be textured (shown in the figuresas not textured) and/or may or may not include teeth, serrations, orridged surfaces (shown in the figures with teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces) in order to secure the superior end of the spinal spacer tothe bony vertebral structure.

The flexible spinal spacer 10 is thus configured to provide for variousdegrees of angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression. Thus, thepresent flexible spinal spacer allows for controlled movement of theadjacent vertebrae to which it is attached (the superior and inferiorsituated vertebra), as well as aid in insertion and/or implantation ofthe flexible spinal spacer.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6, there is shown another embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous or inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse andspinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) generally designated 40 fashionedin accordance with the principles of the present invention. The flexiblespinal spacer 40 is used as an interspinous, inter-laminar, interbody,or interbony spinal spacer and thus is configured to be placed betweenbony structures of adjacent vertebrae of a spine.

The flexible spinal spacer 40 is formed as a unitary or single-piecebody 42 of a biocompatible material. The body 42 is formed in agenerally “H” shape and thus defines a first superior lateral side 45, asecond superior lateral side 46, a first inferior lateral side 49, asecond inferior lateral side 50, a posterior side 43, an anterior side44, a superior side or end 47, and an inferior side or end 48. It shouldbe appreciated that the flexible spinal spacer may take forms other thanan “H” while maintaining the features and/or characteristics of thepresent invention. The body 42 also has a flex portion 64 disposedbetween the superior side 47 and the inferior side 48. The flex portion64 has flexure characteristics/properties that provide for relativemovement or motion of the spinal spacer 40 and thus motion or movementbetween the adjacent vertebrae to which it is connected. The flexportion 64 is configurable to provide for various degrees of angulationand/or compression of the body 42.

The flex portion 64 includes a first set, number, or plurality of ribs,ledges, shelves, fins, projections or the like 66 (collectively, ribs66) [conversely, and/or additionally, a plurality of grooves, slits,channels or the like 66 (collectively, grooves 66) on the posterior side43 of the body 42 and extending outwardly from a middle portion orsection thereof (i.e. extending in the posterior direction). The flexportion 64 further includes a second set, number, or plurality of ribs,ledges, shelves, fins, projections or the like 68 (collectively, ribs68) [conversely, and/or additionally, a plurality of grooves, slits,channels or the like 68 (collectively, grooves 68) on the anterior side44 of the body 42 and extending outwardly from the middle portion orsection thereof (i.e. extending in the anterior direction). Thisprovides for various flexure properties.

In FIGS. 4-6, the first and second plurality of ribs/grooves 66, 68extend perpendicular relative to the posterior/anterior faces of thebody 42. It should be appreciated that the location and/or shape of theribs/grooves 66, 68 may be fashioned differently if desired to achieveangulation, flexion, extension and/or compression of the body 42. Also,the number of ribs/grooves and their configuration may vary depending onthe desired amount and/or type of flexure and/or flexure properties.Additionally, a first cutout, cavity or depression 72 is defined betweenthe lateral sides 46 and 50 at the junction of the ribs/grooves 66 andribs/grooves 68 (flex portion 64), while a second cutout, cavity ordepression 70 is defined between the lateral sides 45 and 49 at thejunction of the ribs/grooves 66 and ribs/grooves 68 (flex portion 64).It should be appreciated that the shape of the cutouts 70, 72 may befashioned differently than shown to achieve a desired amount and/or typeof flexure and/or flexure properties (angulation, flexion, extensionand/or compression) of the body 42.

The superior end 47 is formed as a saddle-shape defining first andsecond legs 54, 55, with leg 54 having the first superior lateral side45 and leg 55 having the second superior lateral side 46, the legs 54,55 separated by a pocket 51 that is configured to receive a bonystructure of a superior situated vertebra. The first and second legs 54and 55 define first and second lateral sides of the pocket 51 with acurved bottom 60. The first lateral side of the pocket 51 has a firstplurality of teeth, serrations or ridged surfaces 58 (collectively,teeth) along its length. The first plurality of teeth 58 provide forconnection to a first portion of a bony vertebral structure. The secondlateral side of the pocket 51 has a second plurality of teeth,serrations or ridged surfaces 59 (collectively, teeth) along its length.The second plurality of teeth 59 provide for connection to a secondportion of the bony structure of the superior situated vertebra. Thesides of the pocket 51 may or may not be textured (shown in the figuresas not textured) and/or may or may not include teeth, serrations, orridged surfaces (shown in the figures with teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces) in order to secure the superior end of the spinal spacer tothe bony structure of the superior situated vertebra.

The inferior end 48 is formed as a saddle-shape defining third andfourth legs 56, 57, with leg 56 having the first inferior lateral side49 and leg 57 having the second inferior lateral side 50, the legs 56,57 separated by a pocket 52 that is configured to receive a bonystructure of an inferior situated vertebra (adjacent to the superiorsituated vertebra). The third and fourth legs 56 and 57 define first andsecond lateral sides of the pocket 52 with a curved bottom 63. The firstlateral side of the pocket 52 has a first plurality of teeth, serrationsor ridged surfaces 61 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The firstplurality of teeth 61 provide for connection to a first portion of abony structure of the inferior vertebra. The second lateral side of thepocket 52 has a second plurality of teeth, serrations or ridged surfaces62 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The second plurality of teeth62 provide for connection to a second portion of the bony structure ofthe inferior situated vertebra. The sides of the pocket 52 may or maynot be textured (shown in the figures as not textured) and/or may or maynot include teeth, serrations, or ridged surfaces (shown in the figureswith teeth, serrations, or ridged surfaces) in order to secure thesuperior end of the spinal spacer to the bony vertebral structure.

The flexible spinal spacer 40 is thus configured to provide for variousdegrees of angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression. Thus, thepresent flexible spinal spacer allows for controlled movement of theadjacent vertebrae to which it is attached (the superior and inferiorsituated vertebra), as well as aid in insertion and/or implantation ofthe flexible spinal spacer.

Referring to FIGS. 7-9, there is shown another embodiment of a flexibleinterspinous or inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse andspinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) generally designated 80 fashionedin accordance with the principles of the present invention. The flexiblespinal spacer 80 is used as an interspinous, inter-laminar, interbody,or interbony spinal spacer and thus is configured to be placed betweenbony structures of adjacent vertebrae of a spine.

The flexible spinal spacer 80 is formed as a unitary or single-piecebody 82 of a biocompatible material. The body 82 is formed in agenerally “H” shape and thus and thus defines a first superior lateralside 85, a second superior lateral side 86, a first inferior lateralside 87, a second inferior lateral side 88, a posterior side 83, ananterior side 84, a superior side or end 89, and an inferior side or end90. It should be appreciated that the flexible spinal spacer may takeforms other than an “H” while maintaining the features and/orcharacteristics of the present invention. The body 82 also has a flexportion 110 disposed between the superior side 89 and the inferior side90. The flex portion 110 has flexure characteristics/properties thatprovide for relative movement or motion of the spinal spacer 80 and thusmotion or movement between the adjacent vertebrae to which it isconnected. The flex portion 110 is configurable to provide for variousdegrees of angulation and/or compression of the body 82.

The flex portion 110 comprises a first flexure contour 114 (e.g. springor spring-like contours 114) defined by and in the posterior side 83 ofthe unitary body 82 and a second flexure contour 118 (e.g. springs orspring-like contours 118) defined by the anterior side 84 of the unitarybody 82. In FIGS. 7-9, the first and second flexure contours 114, 118extend from the superior end 89 to the inferior end 90. It should beappreciated that the shape and/or configuration of the flexure contours114, 118 may be fashioned differently if desired to achieve angulation,flexion, extension and/or compression of the body 82. A cavity 120 isdefined between the flexure contours 114, 118. The number of contoursand their configuration may vary depending on the desired amount and/ortype of flexure and/or flexure properties.

Additionally, a first cutout, cavity or depression 112 is definedbetween the lateral sides 86 and 88 at the junction of the flexurecontours 114, 118 (flex portion 110), while a second cutout, cavity ordepression 116 is defined between the lateral sides 85 and 87 at thejunction of the flexure contours 114, 118 (flex portion 110). It shouldbe appreciated that the shape of the cutouts 114, 116 may be fashioneddifferently than shown to achieve a desired amount and/or type offlexure and/or flexure properties (angulation, flexion, extension and/orcompression) of the body 82.

The superior end 89 is formed as a saddle-shape defining first andsecond legs 94, 96 with leg 94 having the first inferior lateral side 85and leg 96 having the second inferior lateral side 86, the legs 94, 96separated by a pocket 92 that is configured to receive a bony structureof a superior situated vertebra. The first and second legs 94 and 96define first and second lateral sides of the pocket 92 with a curvedbottom 99. The first lateral side of the pocket 92 has a first pluralityof teeth, serrations or ridged surfaces 97 (collectively, teeth) alongits length. The first plurality of teeth 97 provide for connection to afirst portion of a bony vertebral structure. The second lateral side ofthe pocket 92 has a second plurality of teeth, serrations or ridgedsurfaces 97 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The second pluralityof teeth 97 provide for connection to a second portion of the bonystructure of the superior situated vertebra. The sides of the pocket 92may or may not be textured (shown in the figures as not textured) and/ormay or may not include teeth, serrations, or ridged surfaces (shown inthe figures with teeth, serrations, or ridged surfaces) in order tosecure the superior end of the spinal spacer to the bony structure ofthe superior situated vertebra.

The inferior end 90 is formed as a saddle-shape defining third andfourth legs 102, 104, with leg 102 having the first inferior lateralside 87 and leg 104 having the second inferior lateral side 88, the legs102, 104 separated by a pocket 100 that is configured to receive a bonystructure of an inferior situated vertebra (adjacent to the superiorsituated vertebra). The third and fourth legs 102 and 104 define firstand second lateral sides of the pocket 100 with a curved bottom 107. Thefirst lateral side of the pocket 100 has a first plurality of teeth,serrations or ridged surfaces 105 (collectively, teeth) along itslength. The first plurality of teeth 105 provide for connection to afirst portion of a bony structure of the inferior vertebra. The secondlateral side of the pocket 100 has a second plurality of teeth,serrations or ridged surfaces 106 (collectively, teeth) along itslength. The second plurality of teeth 106 provide for connection to asecond portion of the bony structure of the inferior situated vertebra.The sides of the pocket 100 may or may not be textured (shown in thefigures as not textured) and/or may or may not include teeth,serrations, or ridged surfaces (shown in the figures with teeth,serrations, or ridged surfaces) in order to secure the superior end ofthe spinal spacer to the bony vertebral structure.

The flexible spinal spacer 80 is thus configured to provide for variousdegrees of angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression. Thus, thepresent flexible spinal spacer allows for controlled movement of theadjacent vertebrae to which it is attached (the superior and inferiorsituated vertebra), as well as aid in insertion and/or implantation ofthe flexible spinal spacer.

Referring to FIGS. 10-12, there is shown another embodiment of aflexible interspinous or inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes,transverse and spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) generally designated210 fashioned in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention. The flexible spinal spacer 210 is used as an interspinous,inter-laminar, interbody, or interbony spinal spacer and thus isconfigured to be placed between bony structures of adjacent vertebrae ofa spine.

The flexible spinal spacer 210 is formed as a unitary or single-piecebody 212 of a biocompatible material. The body 212 defines a firstsuperior lateral side 216, a second superior lateral side 215, a firstinferior lateral side 280, a second inferior lateral side 282, aposterior side 213, an anterior side opposite the posterior side, asuperior side or end 217, and an inferior side or end 218. It should beappreciated that the flexible spinal spacer may take forms other than an“H” while maintaining the features and/or characteristics of the presentinvention. The body 212 also has a flex portion 234 disposed between thesuperior side 217 and the inferior side 218. The flex portion 234 hasflexure characteristics/properties that provide for relative movement ormotion of the spinal spacer 210 and thus motion or movement between theadjacent vertebrae to which it is connected. The flex portion 234 isconfigurable to provide for various degrees of angulation and/orcompression of the body 212.

The flex portion 234 comprises a first flexure contour 236 (e.g. aspring or spring-like contours) defined by and in a lateral side of theunitary body 212 and a second flexure contour 238 (e.g. a spring orspring-like contours) defined by and in the other lateral of the unitarybody 212. It should be appreciated that the shape and/or configurationof the flexure contours 236, 238 may be fashioned differently if desiredto achieve angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression of the body212. A cavity 250 is defined between the flexure contours 236, 238. Thenumber of contours and their configuration may vary depending on thedesired amount and/or type of flexure and/or flexure properties.

The superior end 217 is formed as a saddle-shape defining first andsecond legs 224, 225 separated by a pocket 220 that is configured toreceive a bony structure of a superior situated vertebra. The first andsecond legs 224 and 226 define first and second lateral sides of thepocket 220 with a curved bottom 230 having an opening 231 therein. Thefirst lateral side of the pocket 220 has a first plurality of teeth,serrations or ridged surfaces 228 (collectively, teeth) along itslength. The first plurality of teeth 228 provide for connection to afirst portion of a bony vertebral structure. The second lateral side ofthe pocket 220 has a second plurality of teeth, serrations or ridgedsurfaces 229 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The secondplurality of teeth 229 provide for connection to a second portion of thebony structure of the superior situated vertebra. The sides of thepocket 220 may or may not be textured (shown in the figures as nottextured) and/or may or may not include teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces (shown in the figures with teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces) in order to secure the superior end of the spinal spacer tothe bony structure of the superior situated vertebra.

The inferior end 218 is formed as a saddle-shape defining third andfourth legs 226, 227 separated by a pocket 222 that is configured toreceive a bony structure of an inferior situated vertebra (adjacent tothe superior situated vertebra). The third and fourth legs 226 and 227define first and second lateral sides of the pocket 222 with a curvedbottom 223 having an opening therein (not seen). The first lateral sideof the pocket 222 has a first plurality of teeth, serrations or ridgedsurfaces 231 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The first pluralityof teeth 231 provide for connection to a first portion of a bonystructure of the inferior vertebra. The second lateral side of thepocket 222 has a second plurality of teeth, serrations or ridgedsurfaces 232 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The secondplurality of teeth 232 provide for connection to a second portion of thebony structure of the inferior situated vertebra. The sides of thepocket 222 may or may not be textured (shown in the figures as nottextured) and/or may or may not include teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces (shown in the figures with teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces) in order to secure the superior end of the spinal spacer tothe bony vertebral structure.

The flexible spinal spacer 210 is thus configured to provide for variousdegrees of angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression. Thus, thepresent flexible spinal spacer allows for controlled movement of theadjacent vertebrae to which it is attached (the superior and inferiorsituated vertebra), as well as aid in insertion and/or implantation ofthe flexible spinal spacer.

Referring to FIGS. 13-15, there is shown another embodiment of aflexible interspinous or inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes,transverse and spinous—i.e. flexible spinal spacer) generally designated310 fashioned in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention. The flexible spinal spacer 310 is used as an interspinous,inter-laminar, interbody, or interbony spinal spacer and thus isconfigured to be placed between bony structures of adjacent vertebrae ofa spine.

The flexible spinal spacer 310 is formed as a unitary or single-piecebody 312 of a biocompatible material. The body 312 has a first flange317 defining a lateral wall 325 and a second flange 318 defining alateral wall 327. The first flange 317 has a bore 319 while the secondflange 318 has a bore 321. Each bore 319 and 321 allows the reception ofbone screw, staple, sutures or other fastening or holding device forsecurement to the spinous processes. The body 312 also has a flexportion 335 disposed between the first and second flanges 317, 318. Theflex portion 335 has flexure characteristics/properties that provide forrelative movement or motion of the spinal spacer 310 and thus motion ormovement between the adjacent vertebrae to which it is connected. Theflex portion 335 is configurable to provide for various degrees ofangulation and/or compression of the body 312.

The flex portion 335 comprises a flexure contour 339 (e.g. a spring orspring-like contours) defined by and in a lateral side of the unitarybody 312. It should be appreciated that the shape and/or configurationof the flexure contour 339 may be fashioned differently if desired toachieve angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression of the body312. The number of contours and their configuration may vary dependingon the desired amount and/or type of flexure and/or flexure properties.

The body 312 also defines a bullet nose or projection 337 that extendsfrom a first arm 360 and a second arm 361, with the first and secondarms 360, the bullet nose 337 and the flex portion 335 defining a cavity350. The bullet nose 337 includes a plurality of protrusions 339 thatare designed to pierce through the interspinous ligament so that theligament can remain intact for holding the implant in place. The numberof protrusions and their configuration may vary as desired.

The flexible spinal spacer 310 is thus configured to provide for variousdegrees of angulation, flexion, extension and/or compression. Thus, thepresent flexible spinal spacer allows for controlled movement of theadjacent vertebrae to which it is attached (the superior and inferiorsituated vertebra), as well as aid in insertion and/or implantation ofthe flexible spinal spacer.

Referring to FIGS. 16-18, there is shown an embodiment of a staticinterspinous or inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes, transverse andspinous—i.e. static spinal spacer) generally designated 410 fashioned inaccordance with the principles of the present invention. The staticspinal spacer 410 is used as an interspinous, inter-laminar, interbody,or interbony spinal spacer and thus is configured to be placed betweenbony structures of adjacent vertebrae of a spine.

The static spinal spacer 410 is formed as a unitary or single-piece body412 of a biocompatible material. The body 412 defines a first superiorlateral side 416, a second superior lateral side 415, a first inferiorlateral side 427, a second inferior lateral side 426, a posterior side413, an anterior side opposite the posterior side, a superior side orend 417, and an inferior side or end 418. It should be appreciated thatthe flexible spinal spacer may take forms other than an “H” whilemaintaining the features and/or characteristics of the presentinvention.

The superior end 417 is formed as a saddle-shape defining first andsecond legs 424, 425 separated by a pocket 420 that is configured toreceive a bony structure of a superior situated vertebra. The first andsecond legs 424 and 425 define first and second lateral sides of thepocket 420 with a curved bottom 430 having an opening 431 therein. Thefirst lateral side of the pocket 420 has a first plurality of teeth,serrations or ridged surfaces 428 (collectively, teeth) along itslength. The first plurality of teeth 428 provide for connection to afirst portion of a bony vertebral structure. The second lateral side ofthe pocket 420 has a second plurality of teeth, serrations or ridgedsurfaces 429 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The secondplurality of teeth 429 provide for connection to a second portion of thebony structure of the superior situated vertebra. The sides of thepocket 420 may or may not be textured (shown in the figures as nottextured) and/or may or may not include teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces (shown in the figures with teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces) in order to secure the superior end of the spinal spacer tothe bony structure of the superior situated vertebra.

The inferior end 418 is formed as a saddle-shape defining third andfourth legs 426, 427 separated by a pocket 422 that is configured toreceive a bony structure of an inferior situated vertebra (adjacent tothe superior situated vertebra). The third and fourth legs 426 and 427define first and second lateral sides of the pocket 422 with a curvedbottom 433 having an opening therein (not seen). The first lateral sideof the pocket 422 has a first plurality of teeth, serrations or ridgedsurfaces 431 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The first pluralityof teeth 431 provide for connection to a first portion of a bonystructure of the inferior vertebra. The second lateral side of thepocket 422 has a second plurality of teeth, serrations or ridgedsurfaces 432 (collectively, teeth) along its length. The secondplurality of teeth 432 provide for connection to a second portion of thebony structure of the inferior situated vertebra. The sides of thepocket 422 may or may not be textured (shown in the figures as nottextured) and/or may or may not include teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces (shown in the figures with teeth, serrations, or ridgedsurfaces) in order to secure the superior end of the spinal spacer tothe bony vertebral structure.

The body 412 has a first sidewall 436 disposed between the first andsecond legs 424, 425 and the third and fourth legs 426, 427, and asecond sidewall 438 disposed between the first and second legs 424, 425and the third and fourth legs 426, 427. The first and second sidewalls436, 438 are rigid thus defining a static spinal spacer. A cavity 450 isdisposed between the first and second sidewalls 436, 438.

Referring now to FIGS. 19-21, there is shown another embodiment of astatic interspinous or inter-laminar spinal spacer (processes,transverse and spinous—i.e. static spinal spacer) generally designated510 fashioned in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention. The static spinal spacer 510 is used as an interspinous,inter-laminar, interbody, or interbony spinal spacer and thus isconfigured to be placed between bony structures of adjacent vertebrae ofa spine.

The static spinal spacer 510 is formed by a body 512 having a contouredplate 518 defining a lower surface 543 and having a post 515 extendingtransverse to the contoured plate 518 from an upper surface thereof. Thepost 515 has a bullet nose or projection 516 that is designed to piercethrough the interspinous ligament so that the ligament can remain intactfor holding the implant in place, and an interior cavity 517. Thecontoured plate 518 has a first wing 540 defining an upper surface 541having a plurality of spikes 542 or other similar features for engagingthe spinous process for securement thereof. The contoured plate 518 alsohas a second wing 544 defining an upper surface 545 having a pluralityof spikes 546 or other similar features for engaging the spinous processfor securement thereof.

A second contoured plate 514 having a lateral wall is provided forattachment to the post 515. The second contoured plate 514 has a firstwing 520 defining a lower surface 522 having a plurality of spikes 523or other similar features for engaging the spinous process forsecurement thereof. The second contoured plate 514 has a second wing 524defining a lower surface 526 having a plurality of spikes 527 or othersimilar features for engaging the spinous process for securementthereof. The second contoured plate 514 further has a bore 532 that issized for reception onto the post 515. The bore 532 defines a roundedrear portion 529 that extends about the post 515. The second contouredplate 514 also has an elongated boss 528 having a bore 530 forsecurement of the second contoured plate 514 onto the post 515. Thesecond contoured plate 514 is movable up and down the post 515 forproper positioning and securement of the second contoured plate 514. Thesecond contoured plate 514 aids in preventing rotation between thecomponents. A set screw 531 is received in the boss bore 530 thatengages the post 515 for fixing the second contoured plate 514 relativeto the post 515.

The various spinal spacers are made from a biocompatible material suchas PEEK, titanium or stainless steel. Other biocompatible materials orcompounds may be used such as bone or an elastomeric or plastic otherthan PEEK. It should be appreciated that the present flexible spinalspacer may come in various sizes/dimensions to accommodate variousspinal anatomies. Also, the body of the present spinal spacers may beother than H-shaped such as triangular or otherwise.

The spinal spacers of the figures are implanted between adjacent bonystructures or protrusions (e.g. spinous process/transverse process)through an incision made in the patient proximate the area ofimplantation. Adjacent vertebrae are distracted and an appropriatespinal spacer is situated between the adjacent structures.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in thedrawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered asillustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood thatonly preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that allchanges and/or modifications that come within the spirit of theinvention are desired to be protected.

What is claimed is:
 1. A spinal spacer for insertion into a spinal spacebetween a first vertebra and a second vertebra, the spinal spacercomprising: a unitary body comprising: a first contoured plate having afirst wing configured to engage the first vertebra and a second wingconfigured to engage the second vertebra; a post integral with andextending from the first contoured plate to define a longitudinal axis,the post having an outer surface and a bullet nose, wherein the bulletnose includes a solid end configured to pierce interspinous ligamentsduring insertion of the unitary body, and wherein the outer surfaceincludes a curved portion defining a first side of the post andextending along the longitudinal axis, and a planar portion defining asecond side of the post opposite the first side and extending along thelongitudinal axis; a second contoured plate slidably coupled to the postof the unitary body, the second contoured plate comprising: a first wingconfigured to engage the first vertebra; a second wing configured toengage the second vertebra; a rear portion extending between the firstwing and the second wing; a front portion extending between the firstwing and the second wing; wherein the first wing, second wing, rearportion, and front portion define a first bore configured to receive thepost, wherein the first bore provides a continuous surface thatsurrounds at least a portion of the outer surface of the post.
 2. Thespinal spacer of claim 1, wherein the post further comprises an interiorcavity and a second bore through the curved portion of the post toprovide access to the interior cavity.
 3. The spinal spacer of claim 1,wherein the first bore in the second contoured plate includes a planarportion and a curved portion to correspond with the planar portion andthe curved portion on the post.
 4. The spinal spacer of claim 3, whereinengagement of the planar and curved portions of the first bore on thesecond contoured plate with the planar and curved portions on the postinhibit rotation of the second contoured plate relative to the firstcontoured plate.
 5. The spinal spacer of claim 1, wherein the first wingand the second wing of the first contoured plate each comprise aplurality of spikes extending toward the second contoured plate.
 6. Thespinal spacer of claim 5, wherein the first wing and the second wing ofthe second contoured plate each comprise a plurality of spikes extendingtoward the first contoured plate.
 7. The spinal spacer of claim 1,wherein the bullet nose is designed to pierce through an interspinousligament between the first vertebra and the second the vertebra so thatthe interspinous ligament can remain intact for holding the implant inplace.
 8. The spinal spacer of claim 1, wherein the front portion of thesecond contoured plate comprises a boss having a threaded third borewith an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the post.
 9. Thespinal spacer of claim 8, further comprising a screw received in thethreaded third bore and configured to engage the planar portion of thepost to secure the second contoured plate relative to the unitary body.10. A method of implanting a spinal spacer through an interspinousligament and into a spinal space between a first vertebra and a secondvertebra, the method comprising: providing a first contoured plate, apost, a second contoured plate, and a screw, the first contoured platehaving a first wing and a second wing, the post integral with andextending from the first contoured plate to define a longitudinal axis,the post having a bullet nose defining a solid end of the post, and anouter surface with a curved portion and a planar portion definingopposite sides of the post extending along the longitudinal axis, thesecond contoured plate slidably coupled to the post and having a firstwing, a second wing, a rear portion between the first wing and thesecond wing, a boss having a threaded first bore with an axisperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the post, and a second bore toreceive the post and defined by the first wing, the second wing, therounded rear portion, and the boss; pushing the solid end of the bulletnose through the interspinous ligament; inserting the post in the spinalspace between the first vertebra and the second vertebra; inserting thesecond contoured plate onto the post; inserting a screw in the threadedfirst bore in the boss to engage the planar portion of the post andsecure the second contoured plate relative to the first contoured plate.11. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of inserting the secondcontoured plate onto the post comprises aligning a planar portion and acurved portion of the second bore on the second contoured plate with theplanar portion and the curved portion on the post.
 12. The method ofclaim 10, further comprising sliding the second contoured plate alongpost so that the first wing and the second wing engage the first andsecond vertebra.
 13. A spinal spacer for insertion into a spinal spacebetween a first vertebra and a second vertebra, the spinal spacercomprising: a body comprising: a first contoured plate having a firstwing configured to engage the first vertebra and a second wingconfigured to engage the second vertebra; a post extending from thecontoured plate along a longitudinal axis, the post having a curvedportion defining a first side of the plate along the longitudinal axis,a planar portion defining a second side of the plate along thelongitudinal axis, and a solid end nose configured to piece interspinousligaments; a second contoured plate slidably received on the post, thesecond contoured plate comprising: a first wing configured to engage thefirst vertebra; a second wing configured to engage the second vertebra;a rear portion extending between the first wing and the second wing; aboss having a threaded first bore with an axis perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis of the post; wherein the first wing, second wing,rounded rear portion, and boss define a second bore configured toreceive the post, wherein the second bore includes a planar portion anda curved portion such that engagement of the planar and curved portionsof the second bore on the second contoured plate with the planar andcurved portions on the post inhibit rotation of the second contouredplate relative to the first contoured plate; a screw received in thethreaded first bore in the boss and engaged with the planar portion ofthe post to secure the second contoured plate relative to the firstcontoured plate.
 14. The spinal spacer of claim 13, wherein the postfurther comprises an interior cavity and a third bore through the curvedportion of the post to provide access to the interior cavity.
 15. Thespinal spacer of claim 13, wherein the first wing and the second wing ofthe first contoured plate each comprise a plurality of spikes extendingtoward the second contoured plate.
 16. The spinal spacer of claim 13,wherein the first wing and the second wing of the second contoured plateeach comprise a plurality of spikes extending toward the first contouredplate.
 17. The spinal spacer of claim 13, wherein the post furthercomprises a bullet nose configured to pierce through an interspinousligament between the first vertebra and the second the vertebra so thatthe interspinous ligament can remain intact for holding the implant inplace.
 18. The spinal spacer of claim 13, wherein the first boreprovides a continuous surface that surrounds at least a portion of theouter surface of the post.